Fruits of the Spirit: Patience

It’s been said that “Money grows on the tree of patience.” That’s a pretty good visual!

Patience is a fruit of the spirit that comes by abiding in Christ. It’s not a natural character of our flesh. In fact, we are naturally impatient. Just observe toddlers or teenagers for a little while!

But, God is patient and wants us to be as well. So, what does that look like?

Well, patience means we turn away from the things of this world and seek to live according to His ways. We delay gratification and choose gratitude, contentment and joy.

Financial patience requires discipline. It’s a matter of adopting a mindset of working and waiting, watching, and willing.

We don’t make fast or risky financial decisions. Instead we seek the Lord and “find safety in many counselors.”

We budget, record our spending, save and set reasonable restraints. We delight ourselves in the Lord and keep an eternal perspective.

We operate as  ambassadors for the Kingdom – simply passing through. This is not our real home.

So, we must establish a reasonable standard of living, establish priorities and become free from the love of money.

We choose not to covet by being grateful and content with what we have. We ignore what the world says we “need” and avoid taking on unnecessary debt. We live simply so we can give generously.

And, all this takes patience. Remember that “Steady plodding brings prosperity; hasty speculation brings poverty.”

If you’re struggling financially, don’t panic. Plant your tree of patience! Start this year resolving to pay down debt, build your savings, and trust the One through whom you can do all things. He’s your source of strength and promises to grant you the desires of your heart as you delight in Him.

If you have resolved to set and reach your financial goals for the New Year…maybe to finally turn over a new page, we want to help you. All this year you can call our Crown Help Line to seek prayer, counsel or just for encouragement at 800-722-1976 or visit us at crown.org!